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2023 Greeley Stampede Hall of Fame Inductees

Since 2017, the Greeley Stampede Hall of Fame has honored individuals and families that have made significant and long-lasting contributions to the success and prestige of the event's 100-year history. This year, the Greeley Stampede is proud to announce the induction of three individuals into the 2023 Hall of Fame class.

This year’s inductees include:

  • Edgar “Lefty” Bartels: Served as the "Go West with Greeley" Parade Chairman from 1964-1969 and was the General Chairman from 1970-1971. He arranged the first military flyover and was instrumental in presenting the first night show in 1970.
  • Leon Coffee: Iconic rodeo clown and barrel man that entertained rodeo audiences at the Greeley Stampede from 1980-1998.
  • Joe Vickarelli: Served on the Greeley Stampede Committee for 14 years in four different decades, starting in 1977 through 2007 including being General Chair in 1981.

“We can never say thank you enough to the many individuals that have contributed to the Greeley Stampede over the years,” commented Justin Watada, Greeley Stampede General Chairman. “Our community celebration wouldn’t be where it is without their dedication. The Hall of Fame is our highest honor to recognize those that have stood out and gone above what was asked of them. We are privileged to have this year’s inductees as part of the legacy of the Greeley Stampede.”

To recognize the Hall of Fame inductees, the Greeley Stampede hosted an induction ceremony dinner and recognized them during the 101st Annual Greeley Stampede at the Pro Rodeo performance on June 25.

The Greeley Stampede Hall of Fame was established for the purpose of honoring individuals who have made significant and long-lasting contributions to the Greeley Stampede. Inductees into the Hall of Fame may include, but not be limited to, volunteers, affiliated organizations, contract personnel, and others who have made a significant contribution to the success and prestige of the Greeley Stampede.

The Greeley Stampede, a 501(c)4 nonprofit corporation, is the Colorado’s premier summer western celebration. This longstanding event has grown in diversity and popularity since its inception and has provided music and rodeo entertainment to hundreds of thousands of people every summer. The Stampede has been inducted in the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame and received many awards including PRCA Mountain States Large Rodeo of the Year, RMCMA Event of the Year and listed in the US Today Top 10 rodeos.

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Copyright 2024 City of Greeley  |  A City Achieving Community Excellence  |  Privacy  |  ADA Policy